Brussels, 27 September 2017 (ITUC OnLine): The ITUC has expressed its strong support for today's actions by South African affiliate COSATU against corruption leading to "state capture". Demonstrations are taking place today in a range of cities across the country.

According to COSATU General Secretary Bheki Ntshalintshali, "This strike is about sending a message to both government and the private sector that as workers and citizens we are tired of corruption. We are standing up tomorrow against the cancer of corruption that is eroding our gains and also undermining our democracy. Corruption has become endemic under this administration."

ITUC General Secretary Sharan Burrow said, "Trade unions everywhere are taking a strong stand against corruption, which is the enemy of democracy and good governance, and directly contributes to poverty and exploitation. The South African government should heed the call of South Africa's working people, and rid the country of the corrupt influences which are so damaging to the economy and society and which are a betrayal of the heritage of ending apartheid."